asked the Minister for Local Government whether he is aware that as a result of the grave shortage of turf in South Kerry arising from the severe summer farmers are making available to residents in neighbouring villages supplies of timber from their farms; that the residents have no means of transporting the timber otherwise than on the farmers' tractor-drawn trailers; and that the farmers are delivering the timber free of charge but are open to prosecution because their tractors carry only an £8 tax; and, if so, and in view of the extenuating circumstances, he will take such steps as are necessary to enable farmers to deliver supplies of fuel until adequate supplies of turf become available.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - South Kerry Fuel Supplies.
The Finance Acts permit a farmer whose vehicle is taxed at the rate of £8 to haul fuel for himself or a neighbour provided it is not hauled for reward or as a commodity for sale. The ordinary commercial rate applies to the latter type of haulage, and it is not proposed to introduce amending legislation. I have no power to give any exemption from the law's requirements.